Stitching together a brighter future - the New Ndekote Women's Savings and Tailoring Group
In the Eden zone of the Rhino Refugee Camp Settlement, a group of women is weaving resilience and hope into every stitch they make. The “New Ndekote Women's Savings and Tailoring Group”, established in 2023, is more than just a collective – it's a symbol of determination and community strength. With 14 dedicated members, these women are not only transforming fabric but also their lives and the lives of their families.
Originally, one of the group members envisioned the idea of a tailoring school, spoke to other women about it and thus sparked the formation of the group. After solving some initial organizational challenges and conflicts, the group was ready to start their new venture. With the support of Malteser International, they received 15 sewing machines and fabric, which belong collectively to the members.
In line with the original idea, they were provided with a mentor who trained them in sewing and tailoring, equipping them with the skills needed to create and sell clothing. Additionally, the members of the group received training in small business management, record keeping, and how to save for growth.
A vision for the future
With a solid constitution to guide their membership and activities, the group is well-organized and forward-thinking. They meet every Tuesday to contribute to their savings, which are managed through a star system. This system allows members to save according to their means, with one star representing the minimum amount and five stars the maximum. In this way, the inclusion of all members into the savings scheme is ensured, regardless of the amount of their income. Members can also borrow from their collective savings; those saving at a higher level also have higher borrowing limits. The group’s savings will be shared out annually in December, providing a much-anticipated boost to their financial stability.
The group's operations currently take place in an open shed provided by CARE International. However, they have ambitious plans to construct their own location using proceeds from their savings. This new space will not only enhance their working conditions but also symbolize their journey towards self-sufficiency and independence.
Transforming fabrics – and lives
The benefits of being part of the “New Ndekote Women's Savings and Tailoring Group” extend beyond financial gains. The group provides a supportive environment where members can share their problems, offer each other advice, and borrow money in times of need. The skills they have acquired allow them to make clothes for personal use and for their families, further enhancing their quality of life.
Most women in the group are also farmers, and the income from tailoring supplements their agricultural earnings. There are hairstylists among them as well, but tailoring is now their primary source of income.
The comprehensive three-month tailoring training program equipped them with the expertise needed to succeed in their new venture. Apart from sewing completely new garments, the community also brings clothes to the group for mending, generating additional income.
Looking Ahead
By leveraging their newfound skills and resources, these women create a sustainable future for themselves and their families. Their success shows what can be achieved through collaboration and determination, and we are proud that they accepted our support and made us part of their story. As they look forward to sharing their savings in December and building their own workspace, the members of the “New Ndekote Women's Savings and Tailoring Group” remain committed to their vision of a better future.
The “New Ndekote” group is one of the Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLA) that we support in refugee settlements. VSLA groups are self-managed groups of some 15 to 25 members that meet regularly in safe spaces and use members' savings to lend to each other.
(September 2024)
